Are you interested in planting native tree species for landscape diversity or wildlife restoration purposes? Would you like to increase the yield of your native fruit and nut trees, or berry bushes? Then this program is for you. Matt Smith, Riveredge’s director of research & conservation, will share insights into how to increase your success by better understanding the care and management of native grown species.
This program is offered in-person and virtually. If joining in person, meet at Riveredge in the barn. Zoom link is found below!
Tea & Topics are always free to join! | Ages 18+
Pre-registration is not required, but highly recommended for the In-Person option. No registration necessary for those joining on Zoom.
We are excited to showcase new academic talent! Uncover insights into the natural world and support the next generation of scholars by attending the Student Research Symposium on November 9th. Undergraduate and graduate students from colleges and universities in our region will present their research with posters and oral presentations. The day includes a keynote from a distinguished speaker and a catered lunch. Come for all or part of the day.
Student Presenter: $15 (Register by October 11 to have your abstract considered) Supporter registration by November 3: $5 Supporter registration after November 3: $7 Children under 12: free (must be accompanied by an adult)
We invite college students to submit an abstract of a current research project to present in oral or poster form at our Student Research Symposium. This year’s theme is “Signals, Systems, and Seasons.” Submissions are welcome in the categories of biology, environmental science, chemistry, geology, and other sciences, but also in the humanities, arts, and other disciplines where research intersects with the overall theme. Judging and prize information coming soon! To apply, register using the button above and submit the following to Jana Gedymin at [email protected] by October 11, 2024.
-Email subject line: RNC Abstract 2024_[your last name] -250-500 word description of your research -Name / pronouns -School, major / focus -Indicate graduate /undergraduate level -Working title for presentation -Preference for oral presentation (12 minutes) or poster
“Adventures in Studying the Diversity of Life,” Dr. Gary S. Casper, Director of Biodiversity Programs, Mequon Nature Preserve
About Dr. Casper: Dr. Gary S. Casper was involved with the initial creation of the Mequon Nature Preserve (MNP) through the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust, and continues to direct wildlife studies at MNP. He has over 40 years’ experience in wildlife ecology and biodiversity studies. After 20 years at the Milwaukee Public Museum, he has continued to focus on wildlife conservation in the western Great Lakes region through the UWM Field Station, Great Lakes Ecological Services, and local land trusts. Gary has over 100 publications; his latest book is Field Guide to the Amphibian Eggs and Larvae of the Western Great Lakes.
Gary participates in many ecological restoration projects and biodiversity studies in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan. His team invented the concept of Species of Local Conservation Interest in order to identify biodiversity at risk on local landscapes. He runs biodiversity programs for the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, land trusts, and private land owners, and has developed protocols for surveying crayfish, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and birds that are in widespread use. Gary has pioneered the use of automated bioacoustic systems for monitoring wildlife. Gary enjoys recreating in the Kettle Moraine landscapes.
Any other questions?
We’re happy to help answer them! Give Riveredge’s Research Manager, Jana Gedymin, a call at 262-375-2715 or contact her by email at [email protected]
Locally Sourced Floral Design Workshop with Little Local Farm
Gather for a garden-inspired, floral-design fest with Anna Merkt of Little Local Farm! There will be 30 minutes of instruction, followed by 60 minutes of guided time to create a floral arrangement that you can take home. Vases and flowers will be provided.
A message from Little Local Farm: Hello Riveredge Community, we are excited to be offering our very first locally sourced floral design workshop in the Riveredge Barn this summer. We are a small scale cut-flower and vegetable farm located in Barton, just north of West Bend. I am Anna Merkt, owner and operator of the farm, and along with my husband Robert, we have over 14 years experience on local, small scale, certified organic vegetable farms. In 2020, we started our own farm and in an effort to diversify our farm discovered our niche in flower farming. Our flowers bring the community together with table-top bliss from the outdoors. We look forward to creating with you!
Ages 18+
Members: $55 | Non-members: $65
Pre-registration required by September 15 at 11:55 pm.
Follow the instructions using the button below to login to your member account for member discounts on programs and events. You can use this login to check your membership status, see your expiration date, and renew your membership as well.
If you don’t see the member price after logging in, need help checking your membership status, or you are unsure what email address we have on file, please reach out to our Membership Manager, Renee Buchholz at [email protected] or call the Riveredge office at 262-375-2715.
🌿 Embark on a summer foraging adventure at Riveredge Nature Center! 🌸🌱 Join our knowledgeable educator for a deep dive into the art of ethical and sustainable foraging on a guided hike through the vibrant landscapes of Riveredge Wellspring Campus. 🍃 Learn the ins and outs of identifying different edible plants, unravel the secrets of wild edibles, and foster a profound connection with nature. 🌾 This immersive experience not only equips you with the skills to identify various plants but also shares the essential ‘rules’ of foraging, emphasizing ethical practices. Limited spots available – secure yours for a mindful journey through nature’s pantry! 🌿🌸
Ages 14+ | Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Follow the instructions using the button below to login to your member account for member discounts on programs and events. You can use this login to check your membership status, see your expiration date, and renew your membership as well.
If you don’t see the member price after logging in, need help checking your membership status, or you are unsure what email address we have on file, please reach out to our Membership Manager, Renee Buchholz at [email protected] or call the Riveredge office at 262-375-2715.
Do you visit or manage lands with asters and goldenrods and can’t tell one from the next? This is the instruction you need. Work with regional botanist Zach Kron for both classroom and field instruction on how to identify the many asters and goldenrods of Riveredge’s fields and forests. See species in their natural settings and leave with new identification skills. This event is rain or shine. Please dress accordingly.
Ages 14+
Members*: $35 | Non-members: $40
Pre-registration required by September 11 at 11:55 pm.
Follow the instructions using the button below to login to your member account for member discounts on programs and events. You can use this login to check your membership status, see your expiration date, and renew your membership as well.
If you don’t see the member price after logging in, need help checking your membership status, or you are unsure what email address we have on file, please reach out to our Membership Manager, Renee Buchholz at [email protected] or call the Riveredge office at 262-375-2715.
Learn how to kayak with Riveredge! This class is designed for adults (ages 18+) who have little or no kayaking experience. A Riveredge Adventure Educator will introduce you to the fundamentals of kayaking on calm water, including essential gear, paddling technique, and safety measures. We’ll provide kayaks, paddles, and life jackets. You provide a hat, sunscreen, water, and enthusiasm. Participants must know how to swim. We will use single person kayaks. Park pass is required and not included in the fee.
Follow the instructions using the button below to login to your member account for member discounts on programs and events. You can use this login to check your membership status, see your expiration date, and renew your membership as well.
If you don’t see the member price after logging in, need help checking your membership status, or you are unsure what email address we have on file, please reach out to our Membership Manager, Renee Buchholz at [email protected] or call the Riveredge office at 262-375-2715.
Locally Sourced Floral Design Workshops with Little Local Farm
Gather for a garden-inspired, floral-design fest with Anna Merkt of Little Local Farm! There will be 30 minutes of instruction, followed by 60 minutes of guided time to create a floral arrangement that you can take home. Vases and flowers will be provided.
A message from Little Local Farm: Hello Riveredge Community, we are excited to be offering our very first locally sourced floral design workshop in the Riveredge Barn this summer. We are a small scale cut-flower and vegetable farm located in Barton, just north of West Bend. I am Anna Merkt, owner and operator of the farm, and along with my husband Robert, we have over 14 years experience on local, small scale, certified organic vegetable farms. In 2020, we started our own farm and in an effort to diversify our farm discovered our niche in flower farming. Our flowers bring the community together with table-top bliss from the outdoors. We look forward to creating with you!
Follow the instructions using the button below to login to your member account for member discounts on programs and events. You can use this login to check your membership status, see your expiration date, and renew your membership as well.
If you don’t see the member price after logging in, need help checking your membership status, or you are unsure what email address we have on file, please reach out to our Membership Manager, Renee Buchholz at [email protected] or call the Riveredge office at 262-375-2715.
Contribute to 30+ years of research on the abundance of butterflies and dragonflies at Riveredge by helping with these counts! You will have the opportunity to to shadow and learn to identify important indicator species in the field alongside conservation professionals. Participate for all or part of the day. Wear walking shoes and pack a bag lunch if you’re staying for the day.
8:30 – 9:30 will be a review and refresher. The count will take place from 9:30 to 3:00.
Ages 18+
This program is free to attend, but donations are greatly appreciated!
Pre-register by June 28 at 11:55 pm (highly recommended) or register at the program.
Follow the instructions using the button below to login to your member account for member discounts on programs and events. You can use this login to check your membership status, see your expiration date, and renew your membership as well.
If you don’t see the member price after logging in, need help checking your membership status, or you are unsure what email address we have on file, please reach out to our Membership Manager, Renee Buchholz at [email protected] or call the Riveredge office at 262-375-2715.
Join us for an immersive experience at Honey Creek Orchard in Cedarburg (address below) as part of our Growing Green program series. Witness the skill and expertise of Luke and Bri, two of our Riveredge Nature Center educators, who also co-own the business Riversong Shearing. This interactive demonstration offers a unique opportunity not only to witness the artistry of shearing firsthand but also to learn from Luke and Bri about sustainable farming practices, the importance of fiber animals in agriculture, and the harmonious relationship between humans, animals, and the environment. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer, a fiber arts enthusiast, or simply curious about the world of agriculture, this event promises to be both educational and inspiring. Don’t miss out on this enriching experience as we explore the wonders of Growing Green through shearing. Learn more about Luke, Bri, and Riversong Shearing below.
Members*: $10 | Non-members: $15
All ages welcome. Children under 2 can attend free. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Luke and Bri lead a unique lifestyle, spending most of the year working at Riveredge and then embarking on an exciting journey as traveling shearers during the shearing season. Their adventures take them across 13 states, starting in Florida during the winter months and shearing at approximately 250 farms. Specializing in sheep, alpacas, and llamas, Luke and Bri bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the shearing demonstration. As they expertly shear the sheep and Angora goats, they will share insights into their nomadic lifestyle, their experiences on the road with their faithful chihuahua companion, and the joys and challenges of life as traveling shearers.
Members:
If you need to check your membership status , please reach out to our Membership Manager, Renee Buchholz at [email protected] or call the Riveredge office at 262-375-2715.
Expand your restoration skillsets by getting past the genus Salix to further your understanding of willow species identification and their habitat needs. Follow Zach Khron and Matt Smith into off-trail areas of Riveredge’s uncommon habitats to find willow populations, identify to species and discuss management. We will start our day in lab to review herbarium specimens and end it in the field. Dress for all forecasted weather, bring your knee-high boots and a lunch!
Ages 18+
Members*: $45 | Non-members: $55
Pre-register by June 4 at 11:55 pm or register at the program if spots are available.
Follow the instructions using the button below to login to your member account for member discounts on programs and events. You can use this login to check your membership status, see your expiration date, and renew your membership as well.
If you don’t see the member price after logging in, need help checking your membership status, or you are unsure what email address we have on file, please reach out to our Membership Manager, Renee Buchholz at [email protected] or call the Riveredge office at 262-375-2715.